In a work of literature, an allusion is an implied reference to something outside the novel, usually to people or events from other works or out of world history. Generally, a reader's recognition of an allusion will add to the meaning of a work by emphasizing parallels with well-known world events or works. Because they are usually expected to be recognized, allusions are often in reference to well-known works such as the Bible or Shakespeare's plays.
Examples
Many names in Chronicle of a Death Foretold allude to the Bible and Greek Mythology:
Poncio Vicario --> Pontius Pilate
Magdalena Oliver --> Mary Magdalene
Dionisio Iguaran --> Dionysus
Xius --> Zeus
The name allusions each add possible meaning to interpretations of the character. For example, Pontius Pilate is renowned for presiding
over Jesus' trial and ultimately being pressured into ordering his crucifixion. Possible interpretations are that Poncio Vicario has been forced into his circumstances, or that, in presiding over the wedding, Poncio has effectively sentenced Santiago Nasar to death.
Additionally, the descriptions of Santiago Nasar's murder (138-142) suggest an allusion to Jesus Christ's crucifixion. For example, Santiago is described as being propped up against the door of his home by the knife stabs of the Vicario twins, just as Christ was propped up against a cross by piercing wounds. Santiago also receives a wound through the palm of his hand - an area commonly related to Christ's crucifixion. These allusions demonstrate how an allusion can work to enhance themes of the novel - the similarities between Santiago and Christ suggest a sense of martyrdom and injustice to the murder.
Allusion
In a work of literature, an allusion is an implied reference to something outside the novel, usually to people or events from other works or out of world history. Generally, a reader's recognition of an allusion will add to the meaning of a work by emphasizing parallels with well-known world events or works. Because they are usually expected to be recognized, allusions are often in reference to well-known works such as the Bible or Shakespeare's plays.
Examples
Many names in Chronicle of a Death Foretold allude to the Bible and Greek Mythology:Poncio Vicario --> Pontius Pilate
Magdalena Oliver --> Mary Magdalene
Dionisio Iguaran --> Dionysus
Xius --> Zeus
The name allusions each add possible meaning to interpretations of the character. For example, Pontius Pilate is renowned for presiding
over Jesus' trial and ultimately being pressured into ordering his crucifixion. Possible interpretations are that Poncio Vicario has been forced into his circumstances, or that, in presiding over the wedding, Poncio has effectively sentenced Santiago Nasar to death.
Additionally, the descriptions of Santiago Nasar's murder (138-142) suggest an allusion to Jesus Christ's crucifixion. For example, Santiago is described as being propped up against the door of his home by the knife stabs of the Vicario twins, just as Christ was propped up against a cross by piercing wounds. Santiago also receives a wound through the palm of his hand - an area commonly related to Christ's crucifixion. These allusions demonstrate how an allusion can work to enhance themes of the novel - the similarities between Santiago and Christ suggest a sense of martyrdom and injustice to the murder.